Operations

The newest Amazon Go is operating a lot like a QSR

The just-opened store features a kitchen that produces up to 30 made-to-order lunch and breakfast items.
Photograph courtesy of Amazon Go

Amazon is recasting its “just walk out” Amazon Go concept as more of a quick-service restaurant, with the latest version sporting such touches as made-to-order breakfast options in addition to pre-made grab-and-go choices.

The store that opened Tuesday in Mill Creek, Wash., is outfitted with a kitchen capable of freshly preparing 30 breakfast and lunch items. They include breakfast bowls, hot and cold sandwiches, burritos, wraps and salads.

Made-to-order lunch sandwiches and burritos will initially be offered for $6 each. Breakfast sandwiches and a.m. items like avocado toast carry an introductory price of $3.

The unit features Starbucks-brand coffees and espresso, while keeping a foot in the convenience market with such c-store staples as ICEE slushies and self-serve frozen yogurt.

As in earlier Amazon Go units, customers order or take what they want and then walk out with the items, without having to stop at a cashier or check-out station. Their bills are automatically settled electronically.

Patrons can enter by scanning their Amazon app or credit card at the entrance. Select stores are also enabling patrons to enter by scanning their palms.

Amazon has been experimenting with the format of the c-store/QSR hybrid concept for several years. It now has about 30 branches open.

Editor's note: This story originally ran on CSPDailyNews.com, the sister site to RestaurantBusinessOnline.com.

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